Schmidt, Ohio House Approve $350 Million Strategic Community Investment Fund

COLUMBUS—The Ohio House of Representatives today passed Substitute House Bill 2, which will allocate $350 million in one-time project funding from the Strategic Community Investment Fund, announced State Rep. Jean Schmidt (R-Loveland). 

This one-time funding will be administered to statewide, regional, and local projects, more than $2.9 million of which will directly serve Clermont County and the surrounding communities. 

“Ohio’s future is bright,” said Schmidt. “This legislation strengthens, intentionally, Clermont County by investing in public safety and community engagement.” 

Schmidt championed several provisions that will positively impact Clermont County:

• $2.5 million to help rebuild the Goshen fire station, increasing public safety and accessibility to first responders;
• $268,125 to construct a splash pad in Union Township, establishing a community gathering space for families; and
• $132,000 to renovate the Owensville Historical Society Museum, preserving neighborhood history.  

In addition to these local investments, this bill also includes additional statewide capital investments of:

• $600 million for the School Building Program Assistance Fund;
• $400 million for the Public Works Commission Local Public Infrastructure and State Capital Improvement Program;
• $397.6 million for higher education projects around the state; and
• $250 million for local jail construction across Ohio. 

The Strategic Community Investment Fund was established in the state’s main operating budget passed last year and includes excess funding from the previous fiscal year. Due to conservative fiscal stewardship, the Ohio House was able to dedicate this excess toward projects that will move Ohio forward. 

This funding will be incorporated as part of the greater State Capital Budget bill, a two-year construction budget for capital projects.